BAHRAIN STRESSES UNITY AND COEXISTENCE IN ISLAMIC AFFAIRS

From Noor Bakthtiar Ahmad

MANAMA (Bahrain), Feb 19 (Bernama) -- President of the Bahrain Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA), Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, has emphasised the need to strengthen common ground among Islamic sects and uphold principles that foster constructive thinking and conducts.

Shaikh Abdulrahman underscored the importance of coexistence, mutual understanding, harmony, and respect as fundamental values that must be preserved without compromise.

“The vital role of leaders, scholars, and intellectuals in unifying ranks and prioritising the collective interests of Muslims calls for a shared vision of a prosperous future through constructive dialogue and cooperation,” he said in his remarks during the opening ceremony of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference here on Wednesday.

The two-day conference was organised by Al Azhar Al Sharif, the SCIA, and the Muslim Council of Elders.

It was also attended by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of his first official visit to Bahrain.

Anwar was the only Head of Government invited to deliver a speech at the conference, which was held under the patronage of Bahrain’s King, King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa.

The SCIA President also highlighted Bahrain’s long-standing model of coexistence, shaped by its strategic position as a crossroads of civilisations and a hub for trade and maritime activity.

He noted that Bahrain’s diversity, encompassing a wide spectrum of religions, sects, and ethnicities serves as a pillar of its development, fostering a culture of harmony and mutual respect.

He also reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to reinforcing these values, ensuring that unity and peaceful coexistence remain central to the nation’s progress.

-- BERNAMA